What’s In a Name by Sally Cronin

What’s in a name? Everything. As someone who has gone through the entire official argy-bargy to get my name legally changed, I appreciate the power behind the monikers we bear. Sally Cronin obviously shares this sensibility because this short story collection focuses on the unique power our names have to shape our lives.

Sometimes even a small change can be significant, as the first story, titled “Anne,” demonstrates so well. Just a small shift–to Annie–had great meaning to the woman who bore it. It shaped her entire sense of self, and went on to have meaning in her extended family as well.

Each tale has a given name as a significant factor. The names we bear become the basis of our own stories, as well as the foundation for the tales in this book.

I can relate. Always kept my name exactly as it is. Have NEVER understood why women take men’s name upon marriage. I know I carry my father’s name (and not my mother’s) and my favorite way of doing last name is the Spanish way. But perhaps this book is mainly about first names?

Thank you Elizabeth and both your names are wonderful. The stories are about first names.. rarely do we get to choose our own and I do wonder about some of the celebrities who have children constantly reminded of where they were conceived or are a compass direction.